Investigating a new bacterial pathway for sphingolipid production
Cryptic bacterial carrier proteins bridging fatty acid synthase
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11042269
This study is exploring how certain bacteria, like E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, make special fats called sphingolipids that we thought only come from our bodies, which could help us find new ways to fight infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11042269 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on a newly discovered bacterial pathway that produces sphingolipids, which were previously thought to be exclusively derived from host organisms. The team is studying a unique acyl carrier protein, AcpSP, found in various pathogenic bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. By utilizing advanced chemical and structural biology techniques, the researchers aim to understand how AcpSP interacts with other enzymes involved in sphingolipid biosynthesis. This could reveal new insights into bacterial pathogenesis and potential targets for antibiotic development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections caused by pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli or Staphylococcus aureus.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by non-pathogenic bacteria or those not responsive to antibiotic treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antibiotics targeting bacterial sphingolipid biosynthesis, improving treatment options for infections.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting bacterial biosynthetic pathways for antibiotic development, suggesting a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BURKART, MICHAEL D. — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: BURKART, MICHAEL D.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.